Tag Archives: balik ekmek

On our last day in Turkey, we met up with my boyfriend’s friend from university who lives in Karakoy, a commercial neighborhood in the Beyoglu district of Istanbul.

But first we stopped by one of the many fishing boats along the Bosphorus and picked up some fish sandwiches “balik ekmek”, one Istanbul’s favourite fast food.

Balik Ekmek “fish sandwich” along the Bosphorus. Istanbul, Turkey

So simple but so delicious: fresh grilled mackerel with onion on a crusty bun. Loved it!

Balik Ekmek “fish sandwich” along the Bosphorus. Istanbul, Turkey

Fishing boat along the Bosphorus. Istanbul, Turkey

Leaving on a ferry to Karakoy, Istanbul, Turkey

We took the ferry across the Bosphorus to the European side, such a beautiful day for a ride out on the water. Karakoy was a lovely change of pace from the old city – a bit more relaxed and less chaotic, more of a European feel. We wandered through downtown Karakoy and then down a pretty pathway by the water, stopping along the way for a beer and some shisha.

Karakoy, Istanbul, Turkey

We had “kokorec” – a lamb intestine sandwich for lunch – his favourite food and I can see why! Soft and spicy with a bit of crunch, I enjoyed every bite.

Kokorec (lamb intestine sandwich), Karakoy, Istanbul, Turkey

Even the ice cream is amazing in Turkey! Cherry, honey cream (wow, what a delicious flavour) and Italian caramel, shaped into a flower just because.

Cherry, honey cream and Italian caramel ice cream, Karakoy, Turkey

Karakoy, Istanbul, Turkey

We met up with his wife and they took us out for an incredible dinner at their favourite local restaurant. Up on a rooftop we drank lots of Raki, and ate raw meat sandwiches “cig kofte”, spicy eggplant and tomatoes with pomegranate and walnut – such a feast!

Cig Kofte (raw meatballs), Karakoy, Istanbul, Turkey

Eggplant and onions, Karakoy, Istanbul, Turkey

But the highlight of the meal were the lamb ribs. Tender and spicy with crispy skin, these ribs were one of the tastiest foods we had the whole trip. We have for sure polished off a whole lamb while traveling in Turkey! Such a lovely way to end our trip, with good company and good food.

Lamb ribs, Karakoy, Istanbul, Turkey

We went back on the ferry and walked across the Galata Bridge, admiring Istanbul with all the mosques lit up at night. Thank you Turkey for such an amazing adventure! Everyone we met was so nice and helpful, I loved learning about your culture and your history, and of course, I loved eating all your delicious food! One day I will come back…

Greetings & salutations! My name is Paula and I love to write, eat brains, watch scary movies and make fake blood. I'm always on the lookout for my next adventure, and preparing for the zombie apocalypse.